“The $2.4 million isn’t just because of its cinematic history,” says listing agent Marissa Hopkins of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. “It really is a residential masterpiece.”

Emptynesters John and Cynthia Abendshien, who bought the home in 1988 for $875,000 admit now might not be the best time to sell given the housing market. But "we just decided we wouldn’t wait any longer,” Cynthia tells the Tribune. PHOTOS: Famous homes of Hollywood

To prevent gawkers and fans of John Hughes’ 1990 film, there will be no open houses and all buyers will be pre-screened.

"It would be a zoo,” Hopkins says. “There are a lot of people who would like to see the Home Alone house if they were given the opportunity.” PHOTOS: The next big stars

In related news, Chicago-area home featured in Ferris Bueller's Day Off has been taken off the market. The Highland Park house was originally listed at $2.3 million, but had most recently been offered for $1.65 million, says Coldwell Banker agent Meladee Hughes.